The first book on the subject of UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site “Ancient Beech Forests of Germany” – The Grumsin

ContentThe biosphere reserve “Schorfheide Chorin”, a landscape moulded by the ice-age and man in the course of cultural history features the world’s largest connected lowland beech forests.

The nature development area between Joachimsthal and Angermünde is home to around 600 ha of unique beech forest: the Grumsin.

In June, 2011 UNESCO added the “Ancient Beech Forests of Germany” to its list of world natural heritage sites. Alongside four other beech forests, the Grumsin is now an integral part of this World Natural Heritage Site.

For decades here, nature has been allowed to take its course. Its structural diversity, dead wood and variety of species mark out the development of the forest revealing the path to tomorrow´s primeval forest.

Small-scale undulations from steep hilltops, to flowery moorland and calm lakes, form the striking topography that gives the Grumsin its very own particular beauty.

Taking walks through the forest, over the course of the seasons, enables the rambler to experience the Grumsi’s fascinatingly multifarious properties.

In words and pictures, the authors present the flora and fauna and its natural distinctiveness in a unique and atmospheric manner.

This visual fund is enriched by the stories, tales and experiences of people who are closely or in a special way connected to the Grumsin.

Not only those obvious aspects but also an insight into the hidden secrets and mysteries enable us to really sense the spell and the soul of this rare natural paradise which is to be protected and preserved for the future.

UNESCO WORLD NATURAL HERITAGE

The leaflet informs about the World Heritage property "Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and the Ancient Beech Forests of Germany". It explains what a UNESCO World Heritage Property is, how this remarkable transboundary cooperation was established, what makes beech forests so special and why they are of global importance. Stunning photographs show the unique beauty of these beech forests. The leaflet is available to download for free. Download (PDF)

The Ancient Beech Forests of Germany – UNESCO World Natural Heritage Some of Europe's Jewels

A brochure by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety

Download (PDF)

The Book of Beeches

European Beech Forests – A Unique Natural Heritage throughout the World